Rureifel: Eifel-Höhen-Route (Stages 3a+3b)

On this quite challenging tour, there are numerous highlights that are worth a stop. At the starting and finishing point in Heimbach, there is the National Park Gate with an interesting exhibition about the wildcat, also worth a visit are the Hengebach Castle and the Jugendstil power plant accessible as part of a public tour. The town of Gemünd is located at the confluence of the rivers Urft and Olef and was heavily affected by the flood disaster in July 2021. However, the signs point towards reconstruction in the sense of sustainable urban development. Along the Urftsee, the route leads through the Eifel National Park, along the way you can visit a bird observation station and further on the mighty dam invites you to linger. From Rurberg, follow the RurUfer cycle path and with the Rursee in sight, back to Heimbach. Shortcut options are available with the Rursee shipping in Rurberg, Woffelsbach, and Eschauel to Schwammenauel. Swimming opportunities are available in Heimbach and Gemünd (outdoor pools), in Rurberg (Eiserbachsee), as well as in Woffelsbach and Eschauel (Rursee). Along the RurUfer cycle path, story figures at three rest & experience locations between Rurberg and Heimbach talk about the transformation of the region. Listening is encouraged!
Directions
The Eifel-Höhen-Route is fully signposted, please follow the route logo along the way. Start in Heimbach at the Rurbrücke "Über Rur" (junction 71). From here, follow the Eifel-Höhen-Route towards Hergarten (junction 72) and then continue on the Eifel-Höhen-Route towards Mechernich / Kall / Gemünd / Rurberg back to Heimbach. From Rurberg, the RurUfer cycle path runs parallel to the Eifel-Höhen-Route to Heimbach.